The 2024 solar eclipse is making its appearance in parts of Ohio on April 8 starting around 3 p.m. Some counties like Marion, Allen, and Hardin will see the total eclipse, while others will see a partial solar eclipse. Both are incredible events to watch through ISO 12312-2 expert-approved eclipse glasses.
It’s never safe to look directly at the sun. Directly looking at the sun with your bare eyes, or through a camera lens, binoculars, or telescope, can cause instant damage to your eyes. It’s important to know that eclipse glasses are NOT sunglasses. Even when wearing eclipse glasses, you should not look at the eclipse through a camera lens, binoculars, or a telescope as these need different types of solar filters to protect your eyes. When the moon completely blocks the visible surface of the sun, viewers can remove their eclipse glasses. A total solar eclipse is the only type of solar eclipse where eclipse glasses can be momentarily removed.
Where can you find eclipse glasses? Check with your local health department or libraries may to see if they have eclipse glasses available. Or, you can look for them in your local grocery store or on websites like Prevent Blindness Ohio. The American Astronomical Society has a list of reliable suppliers that may be helpful. Wherever you get your glasses, make sure they truly meet ISO 12312-2 standards.
Our teams have been planning and coordinating with local partners on planning efforts, keeping the health and safety of all Ohioans in mind. The Bureau of Health Preparedness has been coordinating with other state agencies to ensure that the state is ready. While other bureaus like the Bureau of Child and Family Health have been sending information to their partners to prepare. We encourage all Ohioans to be prepared also. There may be a lot more people in your community than normal. Ask yourself these questions to get a head start:
- Do your kids have the day off from school?
- Do you know where you’ll be watching the eclipse?
- What traffic congestion/areas or bottlenecks does your town/village/city anticipate, if any?
- How does the timing of the eclipse and traffic affect your work commute?
Take advantage of this rare, spectacular event right here in Ohio, but make sure you have your viewing glasses ready – and don’t forget to wear sunscreen!
Additional solar eclipse resources: